Higher kerbs and bollards help protect repaired bridge

The listed bridge over the River Derwent at Sutton-on-Derwent was severely damaged when it was hit by a lorry on January 8.

It reopened in February with width restrictions after temporary repairs and closed again on June 14 for more extensive work.

The closure affected takings of some local businesses with the owner of one shop saying revenue was down 65 per cent.

Councillor Matthew Grove, portfolio holder for highways and emergency planning at East Riding Council, said: "While the council had no choice but to close the bridge to carry out repairs after the crash in January, we also had a great deal of sympathy for members of he local community who were affected by the bridge being closed.

"We have worked closely with the local parish councils throughout this process and arranged the work to keep the closure as brief as possible.

"I am sure everyone will be pleased to see that the bridge is now due to open again."

As well as repairs which have strengthened the structure the clear width between the parapets across the bridge and the alignment at the east end of the bridge has been improved, reducing the risk of any future damage being caused to the bridge parapets, the council said.

To reduce the risk of vehicles driving on the inside verge as they approach the bridge from the east, a high kerb will be installed, backed up with large timber bollards, to mark the edge of the highway.

Extensive white lines give a clear footway to pedestrians, and plastic black and white bollards are being introduced as a further means of ensuring pedestrian safety.

A temporary width restriction at either end of the bridge, marked off with concrete blocks, was brought in before the closure and this will be continued until works are fully completed.

Villagers signed a petition calling for a weight limit to prevent further damage.

But North Yorkshire Police, the Road Haulage Association, York City Council, North Yorkshire County Council and 13 parish councils are among opponents of a permanent restriction.